Hearty Macaroni Skillet

Dive into the hearty and delightful flavors of our Hearty Macaroni Skillet, where every bite offers a comforting blend of tender pasta, savory sausage, and fresh veggies. This easy-to-make dish not only saves you time but also brings the warmth of a home-cooked meal to your table, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

The Savory Sausage and Veggie Macaroni combines simple, wholesome ingredients in a single skillet for a meal that is both nourishing and satisfying. It’s a versatile recipe that caters to both kids and adults alike, ensuring that your dinner time is always enjoyable and stress-free.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

      • 250g macaroni
      • 1 unit sausage (about 200g), sliced
      • 1 onion, chopped
      • 1 small tomato, diced
      • 1/2 red pepper, diced
      • 3 garlic cloves, minced
      • 170g canned corn and peas, drained
      • 340g tomato sauce
      • Salt, black pepper, oregano, paprika, to taste
      • 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking oil

Directions:

      • Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
      • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
      • Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned.
      • Add the chopped onion, diced tomato, diced red pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
      • Stir in the drained corn and peas.
      • Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet.
      • Pour the tomato sauce over the mixture and stir to combine.
      • Season with salt, black pepper, oregano, and paprika, to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
      • Serve hot and enjoy!
    • Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Efficiency: From start to finish, this meal is ready in just 30 minutes, which includes preparation and cooking time. This makes it perfect for those evenings when you’re pressed for time but still want to serve a meal that feels home-cooked and hearty.
  2. Flavorful Ingredients: The recipe features a combination of savory sausage slices, which provide a rich and meaty flavor, and a vibrant mix of onions, tomatoes, red peppers, and garlic. These vegetables not only add a burst of color and texture but also enhance the dish with their fresh and natural flavors.
  3. Nutritional Value: The addition of corn and peas ups the fiber and vitamin content, making this dish well-rounded from a nutritional standpoint. Tomatoes are a great source of vitamins C and K, potassium, and folate, while red peppers are high in antioxidants.
  4. Customizability: One of the great aspects of this skillet meal is its versatility. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, turkey sausage can be a leaner option, and any seasonal vegetables can be used in place of or in addition to the ones listed.

Cooking Tips

  • Pasta Preparation: Cook the macaroni al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly when mixed with the sauce and vegetables.
  • Sausage Selection: Opt for high-quality sausage for the best flavor. Smoked sausage adds a deep, smoky undertone, but any variety you prefer will work.
  • Sauce Savvy: The tomato sauce can be homemade or store-bought, but consider adding a splash of red wine for a richer flavor if you have it on hand.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty skillet with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce in the pan. A simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice makes a fresh, zesty companion to the rich flavors of the skillet. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkling of red chili flakes when serving can spice things up.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. In fact, some say the flavors meld even better overnight, making the leftovers something to look forward to!

Conclusion

The Hearty Macaroni Skillet is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. This dish is proof that you don’t need elaborate ingredients or complicated techniques to create a meal that is wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner cook, or simply someone looking for a delicious dinner option that won’t take all night, this recipe is sure to impress.